Scams

Unfortunately, in today’s world, scams are inevitable. Scams often involve an individual or group posing as an employee of your electric cooperative. Don’t fall victim to these types of scams. If you receive a phone call or text notification demanding you pay your electric bill immediately, gather as much info as you can, hang up the phone, and contact CHEC. Scammers often use threats and urgency to pressure you into giving them your bank account information or loading money onto a pre-paid card. Also, scammers have recently copied and used CHEC’s logo and voice recordings.

CHEC will not demand you make payment over the phone or have you purchase a pre-paid card. The only way you can make payment with CHEC by phone is through our automated secure pay phone line. If you believe you are being scammed or have been a victim of these types of scams, please immediately contact CHEC at 800-328-2368 or 918-775-2211, and then report it to your local authorities in your county of residence.

Scammers are once again targeting the Cookson Hills Electric service area. This time, they are not only attempting to swindle money over the phone but are also making personal visits. There have been reports of individuals claiming to be Cookson Hills employees, contractors, or representatives visiting homes and asking to inspect the electric meters. These individuals assert that Cookson Hills Electric is replacing all meters with digital ones to accommodate solar power and that members would be charged $15 a month for the new meter.

We want to assure you that this information is NOT accurate, and these individuals are not affiliated with Cookson Hills Electric Cooperative or Cookson Hills Connect. Here are three simple tips to help you avoid being scammed:

Never give a copy of your bill, driver's license, or personal information such as your date of birth, social security number, or account number to anyone visiting your home, calling, texting, or emailing you. Only provide this information when you visit our office or initiate a call to us.

Watch out for warning signs, such as threats to disconnect your service or requests for payments using gift cards, wire transfers, or other unusual payment methods.

If someone arrives at your home, ask them to wait outside while you call Cookson Hills Electric at 800-328-2368 to verify their identity. If they contact you by phone, hang up and contact us to discuss your account. Don’t reply to an email or text without contacting us first.
You work hard for your money, and scammers try to trick you out of it. Cookson Hills Electric is here to help you avoid these scams. Remember, call us at 800-328-2368 or visit our office, and we will be happy to assist you by addressing any questions you may have. For further information on avoiding scams, visit the Utilities United Against Scams website at https://www.utilitiesunited.org/#ConsumerGuide.